When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.
An easy fix for a window that is broken is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from entering your home.
Cracked glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to get in. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are working properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the weather.
If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. An experienced glazier can identify the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into complete breaks.
A more serious but still doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair project. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out a professional to help you with the repairs right away. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time with insect corpses or other debris.
If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water into your home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK), separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. They're used only as decorative elements in a few older homes.
Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying components.
First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Then, take off window repair near me rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If you're experiencing a more severe problem like cracks that create an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both the design and size.
Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should contact a professional. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to pull it out. It is important to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.
After you've removed the sash, you must make sure you compare its metal tabs to those of the new sash. If they're different, it will be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in their correct positions on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your windows for damage or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. You should fix any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.